Over Weight Dog"Over weight dog can benefit from a change in diet, portion size reduction and exercise." An over weight dog is subject to the same problems as over weight people - heart trouble, diabetes, arthritis, and a host of other health problems. And obesity is common in pets. A recent study found that as many as 40% of all American pets are over weight. Simply put, your dog gains weight when he eats more calories than he burns. If he is over weight, he needs to eat less and exercise more. Dog Weight GuidelineAs a guideline if you can feel your dogs ribs with the flat of your hand, but can't see them, then your dog is probably near its optimal weight. If you have to push through a thin layer of fat with the flat of your hand to feel your dog's ribs, then your pet is probably over weight. This is true in adult dogs and puppies.Over Weight Canine Symptoms and DiagnosisTalk to your vet to find out the ideal weight for your dog and whether your dog is over weight. Before beginning a weight loss program, your vet should do blood work to make sure your dog does not have a thyroid problem that might be causing the weight problem. If your pet’s thyroid gland is functioning properly and your pet is otherwise healthy, then it is time to begin over weight dog treatment.Over Weight Canine TreatmentOver weight canine treatment is relatively simple. Feed your dog a high quality dog food. Meat should be the first ingredient listed. Many vets recommend against “diet” or low calorie dog foods because these are high in carbohydrates, which can actually cause your dog to gain weight. A meat-based diet is recommended instead.To start your over weight dog treatment, weigh your dog. Then, reduce the amount of food you give your dog on a daily basis by one-third. Make sure to include treats or snacks you give your dog in the total amount of food given. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. After two weeks, weigh your dog again. If your dog has lost even a little weight, you are on the right track. Stick with this schedule. If there has been no weight loss, reduce your dog’s food intake by one-third again. Weigh your dog again in two weeks. You should be seeing results by this time, but if not, continue this procedure until you do. If you are not seeing results, it may be that someone in the house is feeling sorry for the dieting dog and sneaking him some snacks. Make sure you have everyone’s cooperation in helping your dog achieve a healthy weight. You can also help your dog lose weight by providing opportunities for exercise. Taking your dog for a walk or a run will be good for both of you. Some owners add a natural supplement to their diet to help their dog digest food more efficiently and boost their metabolism. A good product to consider is PetAlive SlenderPet Formula to Naturally Maintain Healthy Digestion, Promote Efficient Metabolism and Assist with Maintaining a Healthy Body Weight for Your Dog Sourceswww.thepetcenter.comNutritional Management of Canine Obesity From Over Weight Dog to Dog Health Guide Home |
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